New Delhi/Tehran: On Day 5 of the Iran-US-Israel conflict, the war has widened significantly as Iranian forces launched retaliatory strikes across the Gulf region. Loud explosions were reported in Dubai, Doha, and Bahrain as Iran continued its counter-offensive operations on March 4, 2026.
The Conflict Escalates
United States and Israeli forces have conducted over 1,000 IDF sorties in the ongoing Operation Epic Fury, targeting key Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. President Donald Trump stated that the war “will continue until all of our objectives are achieved,” warning of a potential third wave of strikes against Tehran.
Gulf Nations Under Fire
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have struck a major US airbase in Bahrain using 20 drones and three missiles. Explosions were reported across Dubai, Doha, and Kuwait as Iran’s retaliatory campaign, dubbed ‘Operation Promise of the Truth 4’, intensified. Three US service members have been confirmed killed in action, marking the first American combat fatalities since the conflict began.
Impact on India and the Region
India, home to nearly 10 million nationals across the Gulf region, has expressed grave concern. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in active diplomatic contact with Gulf leaders, including the leaders of Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. The Indian government has stated it has “critical stakes in the Gulf” and will act in its national interest. Indian students have been moved out of Tehran to safety.
Oil Markets Rattle Global Economy
Brent crude prices have surged sharply as the Strait of Hormuz faces partial disruption. Russia has offered to step in with energy support for India amid the Gulf crisis. The global supply chain, already under stress from the West Asia conflict, faces the risk of a broader breakdown if the war continues to escalate.
What Next?
Netanyahu has indicated the war is “not going to take years,” suggesting a focused, time-bound military campaign. However, with Iran retaliating across multiple fronts and Gulf cities experiencing explosions, the conflict shows no signs of a swift resolution. The Press of Asia will continue to monitor all developments closely.